CIVIL-534 / 4 credits

Teacher: Sonta Andrew James

Language: English


Summary

This course integrates systems thinking and network analysis through theory and computing. The objective of this course is to develop expertise in computationally analyzing and modeling complex systems in civil and urban systems engineering, with a particular emphasis on advancing sustainability.

Content

Keywords

Systems thinking, system dynamics, network analysis, computational modeling, sustainability

Learning Prerequisites

Required courses

Introduction to machine learning for engineers (CIVIL-226)

Recommended courses

Linear algebra (MATH-111)

Important concepts to start the course

Coding in Python, background in calculus and linear algebra

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

  • Explain what comprises a complex system in the built environment
  • Model complex urban systems and system dynamics
  • Explain the characteristics of graphs and networks
  • Use network analysis to describe complex systems
  • Develop and model strategies for intervening in systems to advance sustainability objectives

Transversal skills

  • Communicate effectively with professionals from other disciplines.
  • Take account of the social and human dimensions of the engineering profession.
  • Demonstrate the capacity for critical thinking

Teaching methods

Lectures, exercises, and activities

Assessment methods

2 exams during the semester (40%) 
Exercises (30%)
Course project (30%)

 

Supervision

Office hours Yes
Assistants Yes
Forum Yes

Resources

Bibliography

  • Thinking in Systems: A Primer, Donella H. Meadows, 2008
  • Networks, 2nd Edition, Mark Newman, 2018

Ressources en bibliothèque

Moodle Link

In the programs

  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: During the semester (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Computational systems thinking for sustainable eng.
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: During the semester (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Computational systems thinking for sustainable eng.
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: During the semester (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Computational systems thinking for sustainable eng.
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks

Reference week

 MoTuWeThFr
8-9     
9-10  CO121  
10-11    
11-12  CO121  
12-13     
13-14     
14-15     
15-16     
16-17     
17-18     
18-19     
19-20     
20-21     
21-22     

Wednesday, 9h - 11h: Lecture CO121

Wednesday, 11h - 12h: Exercise, TP CO121

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